In a significant development for the Boston craft beer scene, Castle Island Brewing Company (CIBC) has officially acquired the iconic Cambridge Brewing Company (CBC), a long-standing pillar of the American craft beer community. This acquisition marks the beginning of a new chapter for CBC, which has been a mainstay in the local beer culture for 35 years.
Founded in 1989, CBC has been known for its legendary Amber Ale and Flower Child IPA, beers that have garnered a loyal following over the years. Earlier this year, CBC began collaborating with CIBC to meet the growing demand for these flagship brews, setting the stage for the partnership that would ultimately lead to the acquisition.
The move comes after CBC’s founder, Phil Bannatyne, announced his retirement. In response, the public voiced overwhelming support for the continuation of CBC’s beloved beers. Bannatyne, alongside Brewmaster Will, reached out to CIBC with the hope that the brewery’s legacy could endure under new ownership. Both Bannatyne and Will expressed confidence in CIBC’s ability to carry on the CBC brand, citing shared values and a mutual respect for each other’s work.
“Our mission is to preserve everything fans love about CBC while slowly growing its reach,” said Adam Romanov, founder and CEO of Castle Island Brewing Company. As part of the transition, CBC beers will continue to be available on tap at local bars and restaurants, as well as at CIBC’s taprooms in Norwood and South Boston. The ultimate goal, Romanov added, is to reintroduce CBC cans to store shelves across the Greater Boston area.
Though the CBC brewpub in Kendall Square will close its doors this week, there is optimism surrounding the future of the brand. With CIBC stepping in to continue the legacy, fans of CBC can rest assured that the spirit of the brewery will live on in new and exciting ways.
As CBC transitions into this new era, both companies are committed to honoring the brewery’s rich history while building toward an even brighter future for craft beer lovers across the region.
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